Hadley clenched her teeth, trying to straighten up, but her chest felt sore and she tasted a faint hint of blood in her throat.

She took a few deep breaths, struggling to keep herself from throwing up.

"Let's get out of here," Lilah said, helping Hadley out of the ring. Ruth added, "I'm sorry, Miss Phillips. I'll be more careful next time." Lilah shot her a cold, contemptuous look.

Ruth noticed this and was momentarily taken aback, instinctively trying to avoid making eye contact.

She felt it odd. The new move she learned was a closely guarded secret, and no one should be able to detect it. How could Lilah possibly figure it out? That couldn't be right!

"You. Come here," Lilah called out. She added, "Hadley isn't skilled enough to really gauge your strength. I'll test you myself."

Though she sounded irritated, her expression remained composed.

Ruth felt a sinking feeling but had no choice but to agree.

Ruth was sure that this maneuver was unbeatable. The two of them promptly positioned themselves facing one another. Lilah silently observed her rival.

For some reason, Ruth felt a twinge of panic, though she kept it to herself.

"Miss Phillips, I'm glad to have this chance to learn from you," she said humbly.

Lilah didn't say anything. Instead, she beckoned with a finger, her eyes glinting with challenge.

Without a word, Ruth attacked Lilah with the same strategy.

After all, she was just a student now. If the instructor hurt her, it would make Lilah look bad in everyone's eyes.

Then, Ruth had a sudden realization.

As the two faced off in the ring, it became clear to everyone that Lilah was incredibly strong. She effortlessly countered all of Ruth's moves without breaking a sweat.

Hadley cheered loudly for Lilah, and the others also got up to watch the thrilling match.

But Lilah sensed that something was off.

She was aware of Ruth's strength, but this time, it seemed like Ruth was intentionally holding back.

At that moment, Ruth suddenly put all her effort into the same secret move once more.

Lilah saw this and smirked. She skillfully dodged Ruth's move and struck her with a palm.

To her astonishment, Ruth didn't evade the blow. Instead, she was thrown backward, crashed into the wall, and fell to the floor with a heavy thud.

Lilah frowned in surprise. She hadn't used much force. Ruth was clearly putting on an act.

"Ouch, that hurts..." Ruth cried out, clutching her chest and shedding tears.